Zelensky says allies asked him to scale back attacks on Russian energy
Why it matters: Ukraine's energy attacks directly impact global oil prices and the revenue Russia uses to fund its war.
- Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukraine's allies have requested a reduction in attacks on Russia's energy sector, but he insists Ukraine will only comply if Russia stops targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
- Ukraine's long-range strikes have targeted key Russian energy infrastructure, including the Ust-Luga oil export terminal, which Zelensky claims knocked out 60% of its capacity.
- China and India are the largest buyers of Russian crude oil, accounting for 85% of its exports in February, while the EU is the largest buyer of Russian gas (34%) and LNG (49%).
- The US recently eased some sanctions on Russian oil in response to surging energy prices, partly due to the war in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
- Ukraine now heavily relies on fuel imports, largely via Poland, Greece, Lithuania, and Turkey, after relentless Russian attacks on its own oil refineries.
- Zelensky toured Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, offering Ukraine's drone technology and seeking assistance for protection against Russian missile attacks and securing more fuel supplies.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that allies have urged him to scale back attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, a move he says Ukraine will only consider if Russia ceases its own strikes on Ukrainian energy. This comes as global energy prices are volatile, and countries like China, India, and the EU remain significant buyers of Russian oil and gas, creating a complex geopolitical landscape.
